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| Monogrammed (unseen) Oxford Cloth Button Down (L.L. Bean) Norwegian Sweater (L.L. Bean) Bedale Waxed Jacket (Barbour) Khaki Chinos (Tommy Hilfiger) Bean Boots 8" (L.L. Bean) |
- L.L. Bean Oxford Cloth Button Down (Gift)- Ordered from L.L. Bean's website. Free shipping is always a bonus with this company, unlike Lands End, which offers monogramming as well, but also high shipping rates. L.L. Bean is also partnered with Visa for a credit card, and cardholders are entitled to free monogramming as well as free returns. A Trad should own at least one monogrammed article of clothing or accessory. For a list of other possibilities for monogramming, read The Official Preppy Handbook.
- L.L. Bean Norwegian Sweater (Gift)- Ordered from Ebay. Much more affordable compared to the initial $150. According to The Official Preppy Handbook, it is "The nearest thing to a Prep membership card." (Birnbach, 1980). Originally made from 80% wool and 20% rayon, Bean now makes the sweater from 100% wool. I typically wear a medium in sweaters, but ordered a large in this case for extra warmth. Was not disappointed at all in its protection from the cold. Its manufacturing stays true to its name as well, as the sweaters are still made in Norway. Paired well with duck boots and field jackets.
- Barbour Bedale Waxed Jacket (Gift)- Another Ebay purchase. Much more affordable in contrast to its typical price of $380. While I initially wanted the Beaufort model for its extra length and game pocket, I went with the Bedale for its availability. While on a trip to Williamsburg, VA, I visited the traditional men store R. Bryant, Ltd. and was told my decision was the right one. The Bedale would come first for my college years, then I should buy the Beau after I am in the workplace (to wear over a suit or blazer) , and finally the quilted Liddesdale for when I am not at work. This gave me reassurance on my decision, and I am quite pleased with my jacket. Unlike many of the other Barbour models now, the Bedale and Beaufort continue to be made in England, and the company is warranted by the royal family. If in need of repair or rewaxing, the jacket can be sent to the company's headquarters in New England for a reasonable price. These jackets are made to be worn for a lifetime.
- Tommy Hilfiger Khaki Chinos- Bought from Macy's. I am embarrassed to say I bought these pants at their full price, which I rarely do. In my defense however, the situation was an emergency. Tommy gets mixed feelings in the world of Trad. It is a fairly young brand (while not as new as Vineyard Vines, which has been embraced into the Prep wardrobe) and relies heavily upon globalized manufacturing and shopping malls. However, I enjoy its prep school and urban vibes and will remain a proud customer of the company. The pants are of a slim cut and go with pretty much anything in color, but have trouble holding a crease when ironed for dressier occasions.
- 8" Bean Boots (Gift)- Ordered from L.L. Bean's website. An American Tradition. It also has been a tradition for the past few winters that there is a shortage of this favored footwear and a back order until the spring. These were ordered in September in order to beat the demand for them. Since their conception, these boots have been handmade in the USA, and also can be shipped to the company for repairs when needed. While other brands such as Sperry and Brooks Brothers also offer duck boots, Bean offers the original model they attempt to mimic and mass manufacture overseas. It was a relief to finally have my own pair, as I had been using my father's vintage pairs from the 1980s, which were beginning to lose their soles to use over time. *For year round function, one may order the moccasin version of the Bean Boots. They are sold for a cheaper price and are still made within the USA. However, I wished for better protection from snow and decided upon the 8" model. The mocs meanwhile can be worn with shorts and even without socks!
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